2023 Subaru Forester 2.5i-S awd SUV Review

08/05/2023 admin Motoring Minute Episodes 1

Subaru Forester 2.5i-S – Subaru Forester has been extremely popular model for Subaru and now comes in a wide model spread. We drove the 2.5i S model priced from $46,340 plus the usual costs

The Forester competes against such SUV as the Toyota RAV 4, Mazda CX-5, Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson.

The Forester is the SUV you buy if you are serious about lifestyle adventures. With a ground clearance of 220mm it rivals many dual range 4WDs, and in reality will put a few of them to shame.

It comes with a 2.5 L boxer engine that has reasonable power and torque, a 7 step CVT and the impressive active torque split symmetrical AWD system with 2 stage X-Mode.

It also has an 1800kg towing capacity which is ideal for smaller camper trailers, boats and sea-doos.

The “S’ MODEL is packed with little luxuries like heated leather front seats, auto headlights and wipers, powered tailgate, auto dipping passenger exterior mirror when reversing and a premium audio system

On top of all that its has class leading eye sight safety systems.

There is a reason why Subaru’s are so popular in areas where its often snowing or icy conditions. They really are the best AWD SUV for grip on the market

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE FORESTER 2.5I-S RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

More Subaru Forester Details

Forester has been popular, selling over 300,000 in Australia since it was first launched
The reason is that its really very good.
There are so many good features in the Forester.
It was transformed a few years ago when it was revamped on the new global platform.
However little things like the central screen now seem dated when compared to the Outback and Crosstrek.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity would also be appreciated.
A lack of a turbo version is extremely disappointing.
It should be so easy to drop the new turbo 2.4L from the XT Outback into the Forester.

What is good?

AWD and towing Capability with X-Mode
Class leading safety features
Ride, Handling and Dynamics

What is not so good?

Smart phone mirroring not wireless
Central screen looks dated against the outback and Crosstrek
No Turbo version

Also Look At

AWD SUVs in this medium size are prolific. But some are better than others.

Buyers could look at Jeep Compass , Audi Q3, Toyota RAV4 Edge, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5, Haval H6 HEV, Skoda Karoq VW Tiguan, or Nissan X-Trail.

Some Other Subaru Forester Articles

Subaru Forester 2.5i-S Final thoughts

Forester is class leading in so many areas including: AWD and towing capacity, ground clearance, ride and handling.

Its the choice AWD SUV for more adventurous buyers and is ideal for bush trips, towing smaller camper trailers or Sea-doos and weekend getaways.

Forester is perfect for snow trips and where there are regular icy conditions.

You simply cant beat the full time AWD system.

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We drive the Subaru Forester 2.0i S AWD SUV - Motoring Minute

2023 Subaru Forester 2.5i-S awd SUV Review

TO LISTEN TO THE FORESTER 2.5I-S RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW